On July 18 2025 in the barn area at Tioga Downs licensee Edgar Clarke poured a harmful topical substance over tape then applied the tape over a light switch in a premeditated effort to discourage someone from turning on the lights in reckless disregard for the safety of anyone entering the barn. Clarke's intention was to cause physical injury pain or discomfort to anyone who removed or touched the tape in order to turn on the lights and therefore touched the substance. Clarke's actions endangered the health and welfare of other individuals and the substance caused pain and bodily harm to two individuals including an infant child. Clarke was aware that adults and minors would frequent the barn. Edgar Clarke was interviewed by a Commission Investigator at Tioga Downs on August 10 2025 and admitted to purposely applying the tape and harmful topical substance to the light switch to discourage another licensee from turning on the lights. Edgar Clarke's actions are considered assault and conduct detrimental to the best interest of racing and Clarke's experience character or general fitness in harness racing is therefore inconsistent with the public interest convenience or necessity or with the best interests of racing in New York State. Due to the severity of the violation the Commission hereby revokes Clarke's occupational license(s) beginning October 25 2025. Clarke is deemed a disqualified person and is hereby ruled off all grounds under the jurisdiction of the New York State Gaming Commission.
